Councillor Christopher Wellbelove

Becoming Mayor of Lambeth

On 1st April 2009 I was elected by councillors from all parties to become Mayor of Lambeth at a ceremony held in the council chamber.

At the ceremony I was proposed by Councillor Steve Reed, the leader of the council and seconded by Councillor Ashley Lumsden, the leader of the opposition – who both gave speeches outlining why they were proposing me as Mayor. After councillors elected me as their Mayor I entered the council chamber where I read and signed a pledge of office.

The outgoing Mayor, Councillor Angie Meader, then lead me out of the chamber to the Mayors parlour where I was dressed in the chains and badge of office for the first time.

On returning to the chamber I read a short speech where I outlined the charities that I will be supporting this year, together with outlining my focus for the year.

Following my speech I chaired a short meeting where the council agreed the make up of the cabinet and committees. Here I also conducted my first vote, which is required when not all councillors agree on a decision, which is done electronically.

After the meeting I held a reception in the Mayors parlour where guests from the evening and councillors joined me to celebrate the forthcoming civic year.